Violence and Cruelty

Violence pervades the narrative, from natural disasters and animal deaths to pirate brutality and the casual murder of children, presented with a detached, almost clinical tone that underscores its absurdity.

The casual cruelty in the bird-catching game (prolonging suspense before killing or releasing) and the children's manipulation of negroes' fears of duppies reflect a normalized violence.

The brutal death of Tabby and the casual violence of the storm reflect the cruelty inherent in the natural and colonial world.

The pirates commit murder and destruction, with the captain describing the children's deaths in graphic detail.

The sailors' deliberate intoxication and attempted amputation of Jacko's tail, and the monkey's eventual death, highlight casual cruelty aboard the ship.